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How the World Reacted to the Fall of Assad

The Iranian Foreign Ministry blamed Assad for not resisting. 

Surprising the Regime in Aleppo

Adding to the regime’s woes is the fear of new frontlines opening in the Badia region, Fatima Yassin writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Déjà Vu in Syria: A New Chapter in an Old Story

Like many oppressed peoples, Syrians cling to fleeting moments of triumph that momentarily lift their spirits after years of despair, Wael Sawah argues in Daraj.

Syrian Foreign Minister Meets Iranian President

President Pezeshkian highlighted the importance of intensifying mutual visits between the officials of both countries to serve their shared interests, al-Watan writes.

Bad News: Iran is Not Going Anywhere in Syria

Lavrentiev said Russia’s military mandate in Syria does not include preventing arms transfers to Lebanon via Syria, an issue that Israel must address directly with Iran and the Syrian regime without expecting Russian intervention, Basheer Al-Baker said in Al-Modon.

Southern Syria in Israel’s Calculations

Israel seems to be seeking fundamental geographical changes along its borders with Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, and possibly the West Bank, Fatima Yassin writes in al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Harris, Trump, and Ourselves

Trump’s approach to Syria has been marked by volatility and an inconsistent strategy, Wael Sawah writes in +963 Media.

Assad and Jumping Between Boats

It seems likely that Israel will not be content with its limited ground incursion into Syria, al-Modon writes.

“Assad’s Syria”: A Delicate Balance

“Syria’s future remains uncertain: will it face repercussions for resisting Israeli expansion or be rewarded for its neutrality?”, Abeer Nasr asks.

There Won’t Be An All-out War!

The iranian response is expected to be measured and agreed upon, according to the pro-government al-Watan.

What is the U.S. Doing in the Syrian Jazira?

The U.S. is moving beyond conventional strategies, exploring options such as restructuring the Autonomous Administration and SDF, Aqeel Saeed Mahfoud writes in Athr Press.

Iranian Bank Will Start Operations in Syria Soon

At the recent meetings of the Syrian-Iranian ministerial committee in Tehran, Dr. Khalil emphasized the eagerness to elevate bilateral relations, according to al-Watan.

A Step Toward Damascus-Ankara Reconciliation

The complementarity of Iranian and Russian roles in the Syrian-Turkish reconciliation file is evident, Munzer Eid writes in the pro-government al-Watan.

What is Mekdad Doing in Tehran?

Mekdad’s visit to Tehran coincides with an unprecedented living crisis in Syria, al-Souria Net reports.

Russian-Syrian Intelligence Meeting in Moscow

Russia claims the US military base in Al-Tanf is being used to train ISIS militants for carrying out sabotage acts in its territories, according to Athr Press.

Erdogan-Assad Meeting: Immediate or Postponed?

Turkey said a meeting with Assad should be preceded by a roadmap on terrorism, stability and the political stage, Samir Salha underlines in Syria TV.

Who Spoiled the Surprise in Moscow?

Samir Salha asks if Moscow decided to delay the summit until after the upcoming Turkish elections on May 14th, in an op-ed to Syria TV.

New Israeli-Russian Agreement on Syria

Netanyahu said he agreed with Putin to avoid any military confrontation in Syrian airspace, Baladi News says.

Iran Militias Moving to Eastern Syria?

Relations between the Syrian regime and Iran have recently been tense against the backdrop of Tehran’s delay in oil supply, according to Syria TV.

What Happened Over the Weekend in Syria

Opposition in Turkey for AKP event, second batch of refugees return from Lebanon, and Pakistan offers scholarships to Syrian students. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Iranian Oil Tankers Dock at Syria Ports

These are the first tankers to reach the country as part of the new credit line between Iran and Syria, according to al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Holidays in Syria

U.S. confirms support for SDF, but hints at infiltration in eastern Syria base, while Israel strikes west of Damascus. Catch up on everything that happened over the holidays.

Russian Forces Kill Five HTS Members East of Idleb

Five members of HTS have been killed by shelling from the regime and Russian forces along the Rabat frontline in the eastern Idleb countryside, according to Baladi News.

Iranian President Raisi to Visit Syria and UAE

Sources in Syria and the UAE expect that Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi will soon visit Damascus and Abu Dhabi to discuss stability and cooperation, Rai al-Yom reports.

U.S. Sanctions Individuals from Syria and Iran

The U.S. Treasury included 5 officers from Syria in its sanctions list for being involved in the country’s repressive security apparatus or in chemical attacks.

How Would Syria Change and ‘Moderate?’

Cooperation with the regime in Syria will not necessarily lead to its moderation, Hazem Saghieh writes in an op-ed in Asharq al-Awsat.

Putin and Bennett Agree to Drive Iran Out of Syria

Following their meeting on October 22nd, Nafta Bennett and Vladimir Putin have agreed to let Israel attack Iran in Syria, while Russia turns a blind eye, according to al-Modon.

New Details on Israel Targeting of Damascus Area

Exclusive sources have disclosed new details about Israel using rockets to target Hezbollah and Iranian militia positions near the town of al-Dimas in Rural Damascus, according to Sawt al-Asima.

14 Soldiers Killed in Damascus Bus Attack, Promises of Revenge

An attack near a bus carrying Syrian soldiers in the Syrian capital Damascus led to the death of 14 regime soldiers, sparking vengeful promises from the regime and condemnation by Russia and Iran, according to SANA and Syrian TV.

Iran Admits Economic Losses in Syria

Iran has lost out in economic competition to Russia and other countries in Syria, according to the deputy chairman of the Syrian-Iranian Chamber of Commerce, Asharq al-Awsat reports.

A Report on Syrian-Lebanese Relations Over the Past Two Weeks

Hazem Saghieh reflects on the new dynamic emerging between Syria and Lebanon, as a new government is formed in Beirut with many pro-Syria figures, according to Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Two Turkish soldiers were killed in Northern Syria, meeting between Israel and Russia to discuss coordination. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Sabbagh Represents Assad in Raisi Oath Ceremony

Hammoda Sabbagh, the Speaker of the Syrian Parliament, is on an official visit to Iran to represent President Bashar al-Assad in the oath ceremony of Raisi, the Syria Times writes.

Russia “Disciplines” Al-Assad

Columnist Absi Simsim explains in this commentary piece for al-Araby al-Jadeed what’s behind Russia’s recent comments on the possibility of early elections in Syria.

Microfinance: What Is It and Why Now?

A new law to encourage microfinance banks aims to create jobs and achieve sustainable development, writes Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Biden defends US airstrike on Iranian-backed militia, the Foreign Ministry demands an end to “US aggression,” and Syrian Negotiations Committee calls on the EU. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Robert Ford Opens Up To the Syrian Observer

The Syrian Observer sat down for an interview with the former US ambassador in Damascus Robert Ford to discuss his opinion on the new US administration’s role in Syria.

Now Trump Is Gone, What Next For Syria?

Donald Trump will leave office today, but what has he left behind in and Syria and what will challenges will his predecessor face?

Will Mazloum Abdi Defect from PKK?

Following recent statements, it is thought that Mazloum Abdi could leave the PKK and that foreign fighters could withdraw from eastern Syria writes Alsouria Net.

The Battle of the Syrian Presidency Rages On

The Syrian presidential election is due to take place next year, but the issue of who will run and how refugees will be able to vote has become a contentious issue writes Al-Modon.

Has the Syrian Conflict Become ‘Tied’ to Other Files?

Parties involved in the Syria crisis are making diplomatic efforts to secure political gains, before the Biden administration take control in Washington writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Rouhani To Mikdad: Iran Will Always Stand by Syria

Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad has met with Hassan Rouhani and discussed challenges that the two countries face and means of strengthening their relationship writes SANA.

UN Envoy Urges Progress in Syrian Political Process

As the latest round of talks in Geneva get underway, the UN Special Envoy for Syria has called for progress to be made during this session reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Iranian Flags Drape Deir ez-Zor Celebrations

To mark three years since the ouster of the Islamic State from al-Bukamal, celebrations were held, with large flags and pictures of the late Qassem Solemani reports Alsouria Net.

Assad Regime Gives Militias a Makeover

The Syrian regime has made a number of promotions, in an effort to increase its influence and control in the eastern province of Deir ez-Zor reports Nedaa Syria.

Biden or Trump. Who is Assad Supporting?

It is not known who Assad is supporting in the US election, but it is believed that he will be taking a keen interest in the results writes Al-Modon.

US, Russia at Odds over Syrian Refugee Conference

Russia and Syria have planned for a conference in Damascus regarding refugees, but the US is insistent that European and Arab countries do not take part writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

On Syria, Biden and Trump are Not Very Different

The former US Ambassador to Syria has said that if Joe Biden wins the election on November 3rd, then US policy in Syria is unlikely to change much writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Russia, Turkey Hold Syria Meeting in Moscow

Meeting have been held in both Moscow and Tehran, to discuss a variety of different issues, including the situation in Idleb reports Alsouria Net.

Solution to Syria’s War Hanging in the Balance

After years of conflict, there are hopes for a solution that will bring peace to the troubled country, but the desires of involved countries do differ writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Iran To Improve Syria’s Defenses

Iran has announced that it will bolster its defences in Syria, as part of its plans to provide the region’s countries with military assistance writes Al-Masdar.

Liwa Fatemiyoun’s Uncanny Ashura Rituals

On the occasion of Ashura, Fatemiyoun have gathered in Damascus to celebrate, something which is not familiar to residents of the city writes Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Israeli army helicopters strike military targets, Syria and Iran lash out at US and the 25th Special Mission Forces Division arrive at frontlines. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Israel kills Nine More Iran-Backed Fighters

Israel has conducted a number of airstrikes in Syria, targeting and killing Iran-backed groups operating in the east and south of the country writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Between Shapour Bakhtiar and Hussein Arnous

The appointment of Hussein Arnous, as Prime Minister of Syria, brings to mind the appointment of Shapour Bakhtiar as Prime Minister of Iran, which failed to save the Shah of Iran writes The New Arab.

Retroactive, Current and Future Injustices in Syria

The suffering of Syria has reached unimaginable limits, with the country physically destroyed, a huge loss of life and a crippled economy writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Displaced Idleb citizens return to their homes, Russia cargo ships head for Tartous, Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham swap prisoners with the regime and Syrian government shells Daraa village. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syrian MP Insults Putin, Refuses to Apologize

Khaled al-Aboud threatened to attack Russian forces in Syria and lashed out at them for suggesting that  they might abandon Assad writes Baladi News.

Will the Moscow Summit Create a Syrian Gaza in Idleb?

The presidents of Turkey and Russia are meeting to discuss the situation in Idleb and to try and find a solution that can reduce the violence reports Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Iran Halts Religious Tourism to Syria

In an effort to halt the spread of the coronavirus, Iran has suspended religious trips to sites in Syria and Cham Wings have cancelled flights to Tehran writes Sowt al-Asima.

Tehran Prepares to Build 30,000 Housing Units in Syria

Tehran had reached an agreement with Damascus to build 30,000 houses in Syria and to establish Iranian-Syrian companies in the field of construction, transportation and infrastructure writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

Soleimani Divides the World in Death and in Life

The killing of Qassem Soleimani in a US drone strike has deepened the sharp divisions across the world writes Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Faltering America

Recent events in Iraq have revealed the weakness of the American position in the Middle East and their desperate attempts to strengthen their hand writes Al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend

UN condemnation of Israeli actions in the Syrian Golan, ancient relics saved from ISIS and unexploded ordinance kills two children in Daraa. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Bashar al-Assad Is President!

In a recent interview, Assad has spoken about the role of Tehran and Moscow as well as the possible outcomes of the constitutional committee and the status of the Kurds writes Al-Modon.

Trump and Putin Planned What Happened Hand in Hand

A new report on the developments in northern Syria has said that the US and Russia orchestrated events to their benefit and that Iran was the biggest loser writes Alsouria Net.

Has the Sultan Learned From the Tsar?

While both Russia and Turkey have intervened militarily in Syria, they have done so in different manners, which could lead to very different outcomes writes Asharq Al-Awsat.

A Game of Losers in Syria

US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw troops has thrown northern Syria into chaos, but no one is set to win writes Asharq al-Awsat.

17 Pro-Iran Militants Killed in Eastern Syria

Israel is suspected of carrying out an airstrike in the Euphrates Valley, killing at least 17 Iran backed militants reports Zaman Al Wasl.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Drone attacks in Hama, Iranian oil unloaded in Syria, damages to churches recorded and anti-regime protests in Idleb. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Syria and China Discuss Bilateral Relations

The two sides discussed the advances of the Syrian Arab Army and the opportunities for China to take part in the reconstruction writes SANA.

Israel to Strike Iranian Sites in Iraq

The Israelis have conducted a series of successful strikes against Iranian targets in Syria and plans to continue the strategy in Iraq writes

Iranian Militias Join Soleimani in Albu Kamal

Coinciding with a visit by Qasem Soleimani to Albu Kamal, 150 fighters from a militia which calls itself the “Imam al-Hujja Brigade” has arrived in the city reports Baladi News.

Dramatizing the War for Extortion

US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Iran, and also his allies, saying that they should contribute to the protection provided to their ships writes Al-Watan.

Four Parties Pressure Iran to Reduce Presence in Syria

Iran is being pushed from all side when it comes to its presence in Syria, while also participating in Idlib’s battles either from the Western Aleppo countryside or northern Hama’s gateways writes Asharq al-Awsat.

Ammunition Depot Explosion Rocks Syrian Capital

An ammunition depot located in a military zone in Mashrou Dummar, a western suburb of the Syrian capital exploded on Saturday reports Al-Araby al-Jadeed.

Conflict Over Syrian Ports Between Russia and Iran

A planned takeover of the Banyas port by Iran, has stoked concern and competition with Russia, who see the growing Iranian influence as a problem writes Ayyam al-Suria.

New US Strategy in Syria to Pressure Russia, Face Iran

The United States has developed a new strategy that aims to curb the influence of Iran in Syria, but makes little mention of political resolutions to the crisis writes Asharq al-Awsat.

Syria Will Not Allow Its Allies to Fall

Frustration with Russia and Iran is growing in Syria, with many unhappy about the way that the country is viewed writes Al-Watan.

What Happened Over the Weekend

A Syrian Facebook, Russian reticence about an Idleb assault, a halt to the registration of refugees in Germany and Syrians arrested in Lebanon. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Iran’s Presence on Syrian Coast Angers Russia

Iran is set to take control of the facility in the fall and will be used to restores Iran’s presence in the Mediterranean reports Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

Trump angers residents in the Golan, SDF announces victory over ISIS, a tripartite meeting in Damascus and a high civilian cost reported. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend.

Iran to Take Lattakia Port

Reports of the possibility that Iran could take control of the port of Lattakia have ramped up tensions between them and Russia, as the two countries jostle for influence in a post war Syria writes Ana Press.

The Rebuilding of Syria and Conflicting Interests

While Assad has achieved success on the ground, he now faces new battles on the diplomatic stage, which look set to be an insurmountably task writes Anadolu News Agency.

The Rise of Private Security

Young men are signing up to join private security firms, some of which are being backed by foreign powers, and providing protection to religious pilgrims writes Al-Modon.

Six Problems for Assad

Despite Bashar al-Assad now being in control of the large majority of the country, his problems are far from over writes Alsouria Net.

Will Zarif’s “Uprising” End?

The rejection of Zarif’s resignation has put an end to the controversy for now, but some are expecting it to unravel in the future writes Al-Akhbar.

Assad Meets Khamenei and  Rouhani

The leaders of the two countries reiterated their commitment to eliminating terrorism and rejecting the schemes and plots of the West writes SANA.

Iran’s Changing Strategy

With the announcement that the US is to withdraw from Syria, Iran has been adapting its plans to fit a new landscape and ensure that it comes out on top writes Al-Watan.

Leaders of Turkey, Russia, Iran to Meet for Syria Summit

The fourth trilateral summit between Turkey, Russia and Iran will explore the ongoing violence in Idleb and the formation of the constitutional committee reports Anadolu Agency.

Muallem and Pedersen Meet in Tehran

The two diplomats meet in Tehran to discuss the constitutional committee and the upcoming summit that will be held in Russia writes Al-Watan.

Washington Tries to Mobilize Allies Against Iran

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, is visiting the Middle East to try an secure support for America’s policies and its post Syria strategy writes Al-Watan.

The “Good Assad”

As the conflict in Syria looks to be heading into the final act, regional powers are seeking to understand what the Syria of the future holds for them and how they can use Assad writes Al-Modon.

US Pullout From Syria Is All Risks, No Gain

Donald Trump’s haphazard foreign policy decisions show a lack of knowledge of regional dynamics and bring no benefit to the United States, writes Emile Nakhleh.

Has the Assad Regime Arrested Nawaf al-Bashir?

Nawaf Ragheb al-Bashir is a close ally of Iran and has been responsible for implementing Iranian agendas in eastern Syria writes Alsouria Net.

The Quantum State of the US Withdrawal

For both pro-regime and pro-opposition commentators, the announced withdrawal by the US is a chance and lost opportunity writes Syrian Snack (independent website)

Turkey’s Path Blocked in Idleb

While Turkey prepares for a possible assault on the eastern banks of the Euphrates, Russia and the regime are becoming impatient about the status of Idleb writes Al-Modon.

Jaafari: The Constitution Is a Sovereign Issue  

Syria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Bashar al-Jaafari, has warned other countries not to interfere with Syrian internal affairs reports SANA.

Iran to Open University in Syria

As part of the growing ties between the two countries, Iran is set to open a university for graduate and post graduate studies in Syria reports Anadolu Agency.

The New American Policy in Syria

After much confusion, the United States have announced a clear strategy on Syria and what they hope to achieve writes Al-Hurra channel.

Syria’s Solution Rug

The conflict in Syria is a tangled mess of conflicting groups and ideas and the search for a political solution is likely to be long and hard writes Asharq al-Awsat.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The return of festivals, Syrian-Iranian business, regime casualties and a withdrawal by the opposition. Catch up on everything you missed over the weekend.

Syrian and Turkish Security Meet in Tehran

This meeting marks the first time since the start of the war in Syria when the two sides have sat down with each other reports Damas Post.

Assad Grants Iran a New Project in Lattakia

Iran has been granted the rights to build a new power station in Lattakia, which will be able to generate 540 megawatts reports Alsouria Net.

Iran Aims for the Shi’Ification of Deir ez-Zor

In an attempt to increase its popularity and influence, Iran is trying, with limited success, to create loyal residents in Deir ez-Zor writes Alsouria Net.

What Happened Over the Weekend

The meeting between the Presidents of Turkey, Russia and Iran dominated the news over the weekend

Raid on the Mezzeh Airbase

The recent attack on the Mezzeh military airbase reveals the interplay between nations and their influence in the region writes Al-Hayat.

Assad Meets with Iranian Defense Minister

Both the President of Syria and the Iranian Defence Minister stressed the importance of developing long-term cooperation writes SANA

Damascus and the Kurds: Mutual Delusions

It was hoped that the visit by the Kurdish-Arab Syrian Democratic Council to Damascus would be able to find commonality between to two sides writes Asharq al-Awsat

No Major Assault Planned on Syria’s Idleb: Moscow

Moscow contradicted Assad’s pledges to retake the northern Syrian rebel stronghold by force, saying there “can be no question of an operation, of a major assault on Idlib” writes Al-Araby al-Jadeed

Syria Stands, With or Without Iran

Ali Akbar Velayati is not right to say that, if not for Iran, Syria would have fallen writes Al-Watan

Rami Makhlouf’s Prophesy

The agreement made between the interested parties, has ensured that no-one is losing out during the government’s assault on Darra, apart from the opposition factions writes Al-Hayat

Foreign Influence Draws New Borders Throughout Syria

A plethora of foreign powers have staked an interest in the Syrian conflict and the shape of their influence in the country’s future is starting to become clearer writes Asharq al-Awsat

What Happened Over the Weekend

Arrest warrants, ISIS attacks, investment opportunities and a potential amnesty. Catch up on the biggest event in Syria from the weekend

Opinion: Turkey’s Options After Afrin

Writing in Al-Watan, Anas Wahib al-Kurdi details the options Turkey now faces to realize its vision in northern Syria

Events in Syria Over the Weekend

New Israeli strikes on Syria have pushed the U.N. to call for ‘immediate and unconditional de-escalation’

Anger in Damascus Over Sochi’s Closing Statement

The official Syrian media’s distortion of the conference’s closing statement is evidence of its discontent, Ibrahim Hamidi writes

Opinion: No Reconstruction for Syria

Assad’s allies Russia and Iran will not foot the money needed to bankroll the upcoming rebuilding phase, Jihad Yazigi writes

Opinion: America’s Strategy Without Assad

Washington correspondent Hussain Abdul Hussain explains why America viewed the Assad regime as a valuable partner in the past, and why that has changed

Opinion: The Fate of Syria at a Crossroad

With news of an agreement between big powers for a a safe zone in the south, the opposition is becoming aware that decisions on Syria’s future are increasingly out of their control, Ali Ayed writes

Opinion: Syria — Is It Over?

Assad’s failure to secure the areas he retakes will be the opposition’s last hope in gaining public support, a former media executive writes for Saudi-owned newspaper

Russia Accumulates ‘Odious Debts’ in Syria

The Syrian government is making significant economic concessions to Russia, which will have long-term damaging effects on the Syrian economy, Enab Baladi writes

Opinion: Why Insist on the Astana Conferences?

We should be wary of placing too much hope on the outcome of the most recent Astana talks, as the three previous rounds in the Kazakh capital produced little results, Walid al-Bunni writes

Israeli Rockets Target Military Site Near Damascus Airport

Syrian state media reports Israeli attack targeted area southwest of Damascus airport, as opposition sources claim strike destroyed weapons cache for Lebanese Hezbollah militants fighting inside Syria

Tehran Meeting Strengthened Syria Cease-Fire Deal: De Mistura

U.N. envoy tells reporters in Switzerland that cease-fire guarantors Russia, Turkey and Iran worked actively to ensure the success of a possible political settlement during trilateral meetings in Tehran, state news media reports

Displacement of Syrians from 4 Towns is Price for Freeing Kidnapped Qataris

Opposition members and activists decry the forced relocation of thousands of civilians from the “four Syrian towns” as part of a negotiation deal to release kidnapped Qatari businessmen, Paula Istih writes for Saudi-owned Asharq Al-Awsat

Syria … Post the U.S. Strike!

Trump had to send a message to all parties supporting Assad that he won’t just resort to Syrian talks but will be part of the joint offensives in Syria, Tariq Alhomayed writes

Opinion: Is a Political Solution Still Feasible in Syria?

In a special op-ed for The Syrian Observer, the coordinator-general of the High Negotiations Committee explains that untying the Syrian knot will require isolating external influence on the Syrian scene, a transition with the establishment of a new political system, and the firm application of international law in order to hold war criminals to account

Assad the Servant of All and Master of None

After an Israeli attack against an Iranian weapons shipment to Hezbollah in Syria, the writing is on the wall that Assad no longer commands respect anywhere as Russia and Iran try in vain to prop up a discredited regime

Geneva Charade: Regime is the Opposition

This charade called Moscow and Cairo’s platforms is only an accessory to the Syrian regime

Where is the US on the Geneva Talks?

The two warring Syrian sides do not have the power to reject or obstruct any peace deal and the position of the new US administration on Syria will determine whether the Geneva talks will be successful

Opinion: Iran’s Decline

The decline of Iran’s dominance is inevitable due to its diverging interests with Russia in Syria and the emergence of an American policy shift

Rouhani Meets Syrian PM in Tehran Ahead of Astana Talks

Iranian president hails the liberation of Aleppo as a critical step towards establishing peace and stability in Syria as countries ready to gather in Kazakhstan for negotiations on the crisis

Opinion: Waiting for Trump

Walid Bunni asks whether the US president-elect will continue the Obama administration’s stance in denying the goals and freedoms of the region’s people for the past eight years

Russia in the Syrian Conflict: From Participant to Referee?

Russia’s acknowledgment of the armed opposition is one of the requirements of profiting politically from the victory in Aleppo. This means that transforming the military victory into a political settlement requires recognizing the enemy before sitting with him and agreeing to a solution to the conflict.

Opinion: Does Sharing Syria Mean Partitioning It?

Does sharing Syria in its current state mean dividing it among its occupying powers? The facts say that the forces which control Syria today will not be able to coexist within this division, Walid Bunni argues

Opinion: Iran’s Dilemma After Aleppo

Will Iran spend 2017, which is fast approaching, fighting to take over the remaining Syrian towns including the Damascus countryside which is still partly under the control of the rebels?

Obama, Khamenei, Assad Share Cautious Optimism on Trump Presidency

Confusion heads political expectations worldwide, with cautious optimism and wishful thinking being shared between the current US administration, Russia, Iran and Assad, as concrete details around what a Trump presidency would look like remain unclear

Opinion: Our ‘Opposition’ and the Era of Trump

The advent of Trump to the presidency is likely to draw the curtain on this era, which requires relying more than before on subjective factors, and inventing means of resistance which are less costly to the revolution, and less dependent on external support

Opinion: Aleppo and the Ring of Fire

The issue that is difficult to find a clear explanation for so far is the reduction in the intensity of the bombardment. Is there something threatening the Russian aircraft? Or is Putin sending a message to the Iranians after the dispute that erupted between them that they will lose without his support?

Opinion: Syria and the US Elections

Bashar al-Assad and the Iranians are working to impose their agenda on the next US president from now

What Hasn’t Obama Done to Save Bashar?

The danger does not lie only in what has happened so far, but more in what the Obama administration may do during what remains of its term

Iran After Russia… and the Lessons of the Turkish Turnaround

The clashes that have erupted in Hassakeh between the Kurdish PYD militia and the forces of Assad’s mafia regime may be one of the swift results of this common approach and a first indication of the new understandings between Turkey and Russia, which Iran may not be far from.

Are the Kurds More Dangerous Than ISIS?

Today, the governments of Turkey, Iran, Iraq and Syria act based on a conviction they are reluctant to proclaim publicly, which is that the Kurds are more dangerous than ISIS

American Tidings: The Syrian War Continues

Russia and the United States have not yet agreed on dividing influence in the Middle East, and they are providing space to the regional countries to dive further into this quagmire

Opinion: Syria – What is Russia up to Now?

It did not take long for the US to prove it was not a ‘friend of the Syrian people’ – if it ever was – but rather became a neutral actor at best

Aleppo: A City That Refuses to Die

“Aleppo: The Rise and Fall of Syria’s Great Merchant City,” Philip Mansel, 238 pages, I.B. Tauris, London, 2016

Opinion: Syria – a Study in International Cynicism

The UN’s proposed peace talks are hardly the result of a genuine desire to stop the killings. Instead, they are meant to create the illusion that the international community has now reached a consensus on Syria. This is patently untrue

A Most Critical Turn in the History of the Syrian Revolution

The US retreat from the Middle East, Russian expansionism in the region, and an increase in Tehran’s influence in Syria and the region has led the pro-Assad camp to dominate the Syrian file as we witness a decline of other influential regional and international players from the scene

The Assassination of Samir Kuntar: An Embarrassment for Iran, Hezbollah

“Hezbollah finds itself in an awkward position as its militia is unable to launch a wide response against Israel for fear of its response, which may result in more human losses in Hezbollah ranks, especially since a third of its fighters have perished in Syria”

Opinion: Did Velayati Offer Assad Asylum?

“The presence of Assad in Damascus is necessary and when the duty arises, we will receive him in Iran.” says Velayati

Opinion: What If Putin Succeeds in Syria?

As the Syrian regime embraces the “Russian protection”, it finally becomes ready to engage in arbitration and partnership without the fear of being forced to divide its power

Iranian Development and Ethnic Cleansing: Shaping a ‘Useful’ Syria

“It is expected those who work for Iran [in Syria] will likely invest in the Syrian real estate and urban renewal sectors after the nuclear agreement is finalized and the freezing of Iranian assets is lifted”

Opinion: The Russians Are Saving Assad from Iran

American suspicions increased after the Russians submitted hundreds of requests, to several countries, to gain permission for their military jets to cross the latter’s airspace to reach Syria, and assemble there

Could This Be the Beginning of a Solution to the Syrian Crisis?

“Many observers believe that the shifts we are now witnessing will not be like what preceded them, and we may see a significant result if the ongoing negotiations between the active regional and international players goes well”

Bogdanov: Moscow’s Position on Syria Unchangeable

Russia’s deputy FM tells reporters Moscow will not abandon its position on Syria, stating that the Kremlin remains committed to all agreed upon initiatives to solve the crisis

Opinion: Iran Between Two Fantasies

Tehran is helping Assad cope with his manpower shortage by recruiting mercenaries in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Iraq

Opinion: Iran at a Fork in the Road on Syria

De Mistura believes that in the Geneva 3 meeting, Iranian backing, representation of the opposition by more than just the coalition, and a Russian-American understanding will eliminate the reasons for the failure of Geneva 2

Hezbollah Prepares for the Post-Assad Phase

Hezbollah is no longer obsessed with protecting Assad from falling, and is now seriously discussing the protection of its areas of influence inside Syria, as well as ensuring its supply routes and strategic depth

Assad Awaits Reward From US-Iranian Nuclear Deal


Obama has decided to provide Iran with an instant reward of $200 billion when signing the nuclear deal, which will undoubtedly be funnelled into Syria and other regional conflicts.

Syria’s Friends and Enemies Share Fears of Regime Collapse

The Assad regime’s recent setbacks did not only push its “allies” to act to defend its interests in strategic areas, but also pushed its “enemies” to move to save it – or the rest of it – preventing its fall in the remaining Syrian geography

Opinion: Morons and Traitors

Hezbollah’s war in Syria is an Iranian war, and a lost cause too

Extended Interview With Zahran Alloush

Army of Islam commander speaks with al-Souria Net on Iran’s growing influence inside the regime, plans for the reconstruction phase following Assad’s fall, and accusations about the groups human rights abuses

In the Countdown to Assad’s Downfall

Communities traditionally loyal to the Assad regime are reconsidering their support, as many Syrians see a serious decline of the regime’s popularity in its areas of influence

Will the Battle for Qalamoun Decide the Fate of Syria?

“Qalamoun will be a test for the region, as a battle for Qalamoun is widely considered a turning point that will determine the control for Damascus and the fate of the Assad regime”

Decisive Storm and the Syrian Challenge

Regional powers should consider directing the Saudi-led alliance towards Syria in an attempt to enforce a peaceful political settlement

Syria’s Political and Armed Opposition Agree on Five Points

Delegation headed by Coalition President Khaled Khoja met with members of revolutionary and military forces, along with representatives of elected local councils to discuss the political, military and assistance affairs of the Syrian revolution

Kerry Supports Syria Peace Push by Russia

“The United States is particularly concerned about the continued catastrophe that is unfolding in Syria where nearly three-quarters of the entire country are displaced people,” Kerry said

Opinion: Re-drawing the Map of the Levant

The regime is now trying to lift the blockade imposed by Syrian rebels and Islamist fighters on the neighborhoods and nearby villages still loyal to Assad in Aleppo, as well as seizing the military initiative in the rest of northwestern Syria

Regime Fears Coalition Mission Creep in Syria

Moscow, Tehran and Damascus hope that fighting ISIS will help restore the regime’s legitimacy and Iran also wants a place in the new regional system that is emerging

Obama’s Strategic Gambles in Syria and Iraq

Although it was made clear that there will not be Western cooperation with Assad against the Islamic State, the role of Assad in creating the Islamic State in the first place has been sidelined

Opinion: Assad’s ISIS Gambit II

Mouallem’s statement coincided with one from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov calling for coordination with the relevant countries

The Role of Oil and Gas in the Syrian Conflict

Although attention was first focused on the role of a plan for a Qatari pipeline to Europe through Syria in Doha’s efforts to topple the regime there, other parties tried to take advantage of the war in Syria to present themselves as a future alternative

Iraq Events Are a Revolution

The trade in terrorism was mastered by the Iranian and Syrian regimes, and today Maliki’s sectarian regime has entered the race

Bashar al-Assad’s ‘Blood Election’

the President of the Syrian Opposition Coalition says, the international community — led by the United States — must send Assad a clear message: Continued slaughter will not be tolerated, and a military victory is not possible

The Future Presidents of Iran and Syria

The gravest crime Tehran committed is in Syria as the Iranian regime is responsible for the tragedy of hundreds of thousands of Syrians

Celebrating Assad’s Triumph

The exhausted regime has become completely dependent on its allies

Opinion: The Great Bear slips up again

Putin’s Russia has lost in Syria, because it overlooked the fact that the Syrian people will defeat the Assad regime

Aleppo Battle: Bulk Complicity

Was Washington convinced by Moscow that the military exposure and defeat of President Bashar al-Assad’s opponents will push them to practice realism and accept the best possible option

Syrian Kurds’ military gains stir unease

Rising Kurdish assertiveness in Syria puts Turkey in a particularly tough position as it tries to make peace on its own soil with PKK

An Economic Campaign to Show That Syria is OK

Economist analyst Adnan Abdulrazzak writes for The Syrian Observer on the regime’s efforts to show that Syria is capable to control its economic difficulties

Transcript of interview with Jeffrey Feltman

Feltman tells Raghida Dergham not holding the Geneva 2 conference means that Assad will be running in the next presidential election

Opinion: Our People Are Paying the Price for Obama’s Deals

As a result of all this American hesitation in our region, some stubborn and oppressive regimes have succeeded in staying in power and maintaining the grip of their forces and their “guards” over their people

Assad Warns U.S. Against Military Action

The basic repercussion would be a ball of fire that would burn not only Syria but the whole Middle East, Assad’s Minister of Information has said

Work as Usual Over Eid al-Fitr: PM

Halqi instructed all ministries and authorities to continue to provide the best services to citizens, especially in health and electricity, during the holiday.

Assad’s Alawite Support Base Erodes

Assad is increasingly dependent on Hezbollah and Iranian forces, who now take leading role in operations

The Syrian Shrapnel

Russia wanted to affirm that Russia today is different from that Russia which stood helpless when its Serbian ally was disciplined

Opinion: When the Russian Baath Scolds Damascus

What is truly suspicious is the emergence of American signs pointing to the toppling of the balance of power in a way rendering it unlikely to see President Al-Assad stepping down in the near future

Opinion: Obama, isolationist in Syria

Obama chose the wrong stance in syria and allowed the Assad regime, along with the Iranians and Hezbollah, to besiege the popular uprising until it became a danger to the region

Can Russia and the West End Syria’s Chaos?

For analysts familiar with the politics of Syria, the country’s descent into chaos amounts to an all-too-predictable pattern. It also parallels what Rami Makhlouf, a major regime figure and first cousin of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, bluntly announced that, among other things, Syrians faced the Assad regime or domestic and regional chaos.

Opinion: Israeli Messages in Several Directions

Many political commentators have attempted to discern Israel’s real reasons for the dual strike it launched on military targets in Syria at the end of last week.

Opinion: Syria Conference and Middle Ground Solution Formula

Secretary of State Kerry chose to recognize in Kremlin the existence of “significant common interests with respect to Syria” for both the American and Russian sides, thus reassuring Putin that the end of the war will only be secured through dual sponsorship – whose lines are drawn by Washington and Moscow – and that the Libya experience will not be reiterated as promised by Obama and repeated by NATO on many occasions.

Statement of the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria on current Developments

With the acceleration of recent events in the context of the blessed Syrian revolution, the Muslim Brotherhood in Syria addresses this statement to the Syrian, Arab and Muslim people, and to free people everywhere, to clarify events and outline our position and responsibilities.

Israel ‘Playing with Fire’: Iran

Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi Monday condemned Israeli strikes on Syria, saying Israel was “playing with fire.”

Stances on the Syrian Crisis Redraw the Map of the Region

Headlines describing the 24th Arab Summit held in Doha this week reflect profound division over Syria and Qatar’s role in effecting change in the Arab Region. Doha has taken over the presidency of the Arab league for what could be one of the most important years of the transitional period.

The Horrors of What Comes After the Image

It is no simple matter either for Moaz al-Khatib to sit at the summit, in front of the revolution’s flag rather than the flag of the Syrian Arab republic, which we have known for decades. Likewise, it is no simple matter that none of the leaders of the delegation left the hall this time.

Kerry Adopts the “Russian Solution”

There is a complete lack of trust between the two sides, the opposition and the regime, and building such trust will require a great deal of time and effort.

Paving a new silk road

Increasing trade between Syria and Iran vastly favors Tehran

Are You Serious, Mr. President?

Obama’s logic is frightening, and his understanding of the region terrifying and in doubt, particularly as he is the man who saw a revolution in Bahrain and pushed Mubarak to step down while today he is saying that he is working hard to assess the situation in Syria!

The Syrian Obstacle Between the Opposition and Foreign Calculations

In light of the absence of any signs pointing to an imminent military settlement or political solution, the opposition has no choice but to go back to the Syrian domestic scene and rely on its political and military powers to even out the balance of powers and impose the solution wanted by the Syrians.

Bashar addresses his international gang

Bashar before anyone else realizes that his dictatorial regime encompasses all the reasons for its own downfall, from the bloodthirsty and brutal acts, the assassinations, torture, sectarianism and corruption, and the looting of the country’s wealth.

Damascus without al-Assad and Cairo’s fears

Iran is a difficult puzzle to resolve. After losing Syria, as well as losing half of its oil revenue as a result of Western sanctions, Tehran may be obliged to agree to a truce and the freezing of its nuclear program. Even if this were to happen, Gulf States are still facing numerous threats, particularly with the al-Maliki government in Iraq explicitly falling under Iran’s sway.